Suffolk is set to launch a new campaign to try to find more foster-carers for children who need to be moved away from their own families.

At present 820 children currently live in care in Suffolk and the county council says there is an urgent need for more people to come forward to foster.

The first campaign will focus on the need to recruit more foster carers for teenagers.

Suffolk Fostering Service is the longest established provider of services in the county, offering competitive fees, 24-hour support services and up to 21 days paid leave per year.

The first campaign focuses on the real-life experiences of two Suffolk Fostering Service foster carers, Ethel from Ipswich and Sammy from Lowestoft.

Teenagers in care have often gone through a great deal in their lives and this campaign aims to give an honest reflection of what it takes to be a foster carer and the rewards that can come as a result.

Ethel, a foster carer from Ipswich said: “I foster teenagers because they are at an age where you can really engage with them and show them a more positive way forward. I feel proud and privileged that I’m fostering and caring for these children.”

The campaign is accompanied by a new promotional video which features both Ethel and Sammy, providing an insight into what it takes to be a foster carer for teenagers and the positive difference they make to a young person’s life.

Gordon Jones, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education and Skills said: “Children in need of foster carers are some of the most vulnerable members of our society and helping them grow into successful, confident and resilient young adults can be hugely rewarding.

“It’s really important to get more people talking about foster care and I would encourage Suffolk residents to look at their own lives to consider whether they have the patience, compassion and the spare room required to provide a child with the secure home life they need.”

For more information visit: www.fosterandadopt.suffolk.gov.uk

Suffolk Fostering Service will be hosting several pop-up events across Suffolk:

• Tuesday 24th October, 10.30am - 4.30pm, Ipswich Museum

• Saturday 11th November, 9.30am - 12.30pm, Stowmarket Leisure Centre

• Saturday 11th November, 12.00pm - 6.00pm University of Suffolk, Ipswich